Keratin treatments can be a fantastic way to enhance the look and feel of colored or bleached hair, which often requires extra care due to its increased fragility and susceptibility to damage. The Kera Mane Keratin Hair Treatment, known for its natural and gentle formula, is especially suited for treated hair types. This guide will explore the special considerations and techniques necessary for applying keratin treatments on colored or bleached hair, helping to maintain its health and vibrancy while achieving smooth, frizz-free results.
Understanding the Needs of Colored and Bleached Hair
Colored and bleached hair has been chemically processed to alter its natural color, which can strip away moisture and weaken hair strands. The application of a keratin treatment can replenish lost proteins and restore a protective barrier around the hair shaft, but it must be done carefully to avoid further damage and color fading.
Pre-Treatment Considerations
1. Timing of Coloring:
- Before Keratin Treatment: Ideally, color your hair at least two weeks before applying a keratin treatment. This gap allows the hair to recover and ensures the color has set.
- Post Keratin Treatment: If you plan to color your hair after a keratin treatment, wait at least two weeks to prevent the fresh keratin from being stripped away by the coloring chemicals.
2. Condition Assessment:
- Hair Health Check: Assess the condition of your hair. If your hair is extremely damaged or brittle from bleaching, it's crucial to use a nourishing treatment prior to the keratin application. Products enriched with proteins and moisturizers can help fortify the hair in preparation for keratin.
Application Techniques for Colored or Bleached Hair
1. Gentle Application:
- Product Selection: Choose a keratin treatment that is free from harsh chemicals and formulated with natural ingredients, like Kera Mane. This selection is crucial to minimize potential irritation and damage to weakened hair.
- Avoid Root Application: Apply the keratin treatment slightly away from the scalp and roots, particularly if the hair is heavily bleached. Start application a few centimeters down from the roots to prevent potential scalp irritation and protect the more porous parts of your hair.
2. Lower Heat Settings:
- Flat Iron Temperature: Adjust the flat iron to a lower temperature than usual (around 350-380°F) when sealing the keratin into colored or bleached hair. High temperatures can further damage vulnerable hair and fade color.
3. Use Sufficient but Moderate Product:
- Amount of Product: Ensure that each strand is adequately coated with the keratin solution, but avoid using excessive amounts. Over-saturation can lead to an unnecessary product buildup, weighing down your hair and potentially impacting the color.
Post-Treatment Care
1. Color-Safe Shampoos:
- Sulfate-Free Products: After both coloring and keratin treatments, use sulfate-free shampoos to cleanse your hair. These products are gentler and will help maintain both the color and the effects of the keratin treatment longer.
2. Regular Moisturizing Treatments:
- Deep Conditioning: Regular deep conditioning treatments are vital for maintaining the health of colored and bleached hair post-keratin application. Look for products specifically designed for chemically treated hair, which help replenish moisture and elasticity.
3. Avoid Chlorine and Sun Exposure:
- Protection Strategies: When swimming, wear a swim cap or apply a leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from chlorine and salt water. Use hats or hair products with UV protection to safeguard against sun damage, which can rapidly degrade both the color and the keratin treatment.
Conclusion
Applying a keratin treatment to colored or bleached hair can significantly improve its texture and appearance, but requires careful consideration to maintain hair health and color vibrancy. By following these tailored pre-treatment, application, and post-treatment guidelines, you can enhance your hair's beauty safely and effectively with treatments like Kera Mane. Enjoy the dual benefits of vibrant color and smooth, glossy hair by integrating these practices into your hair care routine.